WhatsApp is developing a proprietary cloud storage service for iOS chat backups, allowing users to bypass iCloud while securing their data with mandatory end-to-end encryption by default.

Key Points

• WhatsApp is testing a first-party cloud backup system for iOS, following similar development efforts for the Android platform.
• The proposed service includes 2GB of free storage, with paid tiers reaching up to 1TB, including a 50GB option for $0.99 monthly.
• All backups stored on WhatsApp servers will be protected by mandatory end-to-end encryption, requiring a passkey, password, or 64-digit key.
• The feature remains in early development within the iOS beta version 26.28.10.16 and is not yet accessible to public testers.
• iCloud will remain the default backup destination, with the new WhatsApp-native option serving as an alternative choice for users.

Why it Matters

This development signals a shift toward platform independence for WhatsApp, reducing reliance on Apple and Google ecosystems for user data management. By mandating end-to-end encryption, the company is positioning its storage solution as a more secure alternative to standard cloud provider backups.